Under the theme of “African Solutions for Nature and People Creating transformative responses to the biodiversity and climate crisis in Africa”, IUCN, the International Union for Conservation of Nature is convening the Africa Conservation Forum (ACF). The Forums brings together IUCN Members and multi stakeholders to discuss some of the most pressing environmental conservation issues in Africa. It also provides an avenue for
sharing information and knowledge, building partnerships, and connecting key stakeholders from different parts of Africa.
The IUCN Africa Conservation Forum is organised by the three IUCN offices according to sub-regions in Africa: West and Central Africa (PACO), North Africa (Centre for Mediterranean Cooperation – MED), and Eastern and Southern Africa (ESARO).
In an era where the call for conservation echoes louder than ever, the Alliance for Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities for Conservation in Africa (AICA) is leading the charge with a bold new initiative. The unveiling of a Pan-African Indigenous Peoples and Local Communities (IPLC) body represents a beacon of hope and solidarity for communities across Africa.
This landmark event is not just about formalities; it’s about breathing life into the aspirations of countless individuals who have long stewarded our natural world. The IPLC body emerges as a testament to their resilience and wisdom, poised to steer conservation efforts towards a more equitable horizon.
PRE-EVENT
The pre-event, set to take place two days before the IUCN Regional Conservation Forum, and will serve as an intimate gathering of minds and hearts. Here, community leaders, activists, and conservationists will weave together their stories, strategies, and dreams for the future.
As we look towards the main event, we have the following objectives that will shape our approach to conservation and by extension engagement in the ARCF:
- To continue the process of profiling AICA and raising its visibility among prospective IP&LC organisations, government agencies that will also convene at the ARCF, donor agencies, and international conservation agencies as part of the process of building the AICA membership and support base.
- To prepare the 50 IP&LC participants to effectively participate in the main ARCF based on themes and topics such as human-wildlife conflict, sustainable finance, climate change, and others that will be aligned with those of the ARCF
- To provide an opportunity to AICA to hold Dialogue Sessions with government agencies, and donors for an enhanced mutual understanding of AICA and its conservation and socioeconomic development objectives
The journey ahead is filled with promise and potential. As AICA unfurls its wings to embrace this new chapter, we invite you to join us in celebrating the rich legacy of Africa’s IPLCs. Together, we can forge a future where nature thrives alongside those who have cherished it through the ages.
Connect with us as we embark on this transformative path. Your voice, your support, and your passion are crucial in shaping a world where conservation is synonymous with community.
